From sherries to riojas and beyond, Evuna showcases Spain’s rich viticulture, offering a selection of fine wines imported directly—a distinction that sets it apart from any other Spanish restaurant in the UK.
Founded in 2002 by former marketing director and wine buff Jane Dowler, her mum Frances, and respected wine importer Manuel Evuna, the restaurant set out on a mission to offer the UK an authentic taste of Spain’s diverse gastronomy and viticulture. Eager to enhance her own knowledge of Spanish cuisine and winemaking, Jane moved a vineyard in La Mancha, central Spain, living and breathing the traditions which make these wines so unique. Returning to UK, Jane personally selected over 6,000 bottles to import a month, all sold and served exclusively in Manchester at Evuna.
Today, Jane continues to return monthly to Spain to discover new and evolving Spanish wines ensuring Evuna’s wine list always offers the very best innovations from the countries winemaking community. Evuna has grown to occupy 3 sites in Northern Quarter, Knutsford and a prime spot at Manchester’s Great Northern Warehouse on Deansgate.
Each restaurant continues to evolve, each developing its own Spanish-infused identity with a blend of talents from across Spain’s regions operating in each kitchen. From Andalucia to Catalonia, Evuna restaurants serve a menu of staple tapas such as Albondigas, Calamares and of course Bravas as well as offering regional monthly specials.
Today, 21 years since conception, diners can expect elegant classic tapas paired with modern fusion techniques.
Commenting on the restaurant group’s 21-year success, founder Jane Dowler said: Twentyone years ago, the world of Spanish wines consisted of Rioja and Sherry to us Brits, but today it’s so much more. I am continually overwhelmed with the diversity of its viticulture, with over 120 denominations of origin and over 100 types of indigenous grapes. Our mission is to bring you the finest wines in Spain at a great price since we import ourselves directly, unlike any other Spanish restaurant in the UK.”
Evuna celebrates its 21st birthday on 21st November. To celebrate, the restaurant will be serving up exclusive chef specials including roasted red pepper stuffed with vegetables and coriander on top of mojo verde, sirloin steak with padron peppers and chimichurri sauce and scallops with whiskey truffle sauce served with green banana chips.